Wildlife Research and Conservation

Wildlife research and conservation is an integral part of Friends of Nature. We prioritize our research in areas that are often neglected by other researchers and organisations. We have carried out research on various species such as wild yak, grey wolf, Himalayan griffon, bearded vulture, Tibetan gazelle, wild ass, owls, Himalayan black bear, striped hyaena, Indian flying fox, clouded leopard, common leopard, snow leopard, golden cat, leopard cat, stream frogs and wildlife trade.

We also initiate programs aimed at conservation of the above mentioned species which include preparing and airing radio programs, conducting conservation camps for students and general people, printing and distributing posters/pamphlets/brochures and organizing talk programs. We have also provided information for global and national IUCN red list assessment of various mammal species. In addition to this, we have been organizing Nepal Owl Festival annually since 2012 which is one of the most important events in the field of conservation in the country.

Human-leopard conflict is inevitable when both human and this fearsome predator share the same landscape. Here, we plan to assess how and why these conflict incidents are happening in Kathmandu valley with seemingly no solution available. Our research, we hope, will provide critical answers to what can be done to manage the conflict.

Owl Conservation in Eastern Hills of Nepal

Project Leader: Raju Acharya
Funded by: Rufford Small Grants, UK

Owls are one of the most neglected group of birds even when the trade on them is at threatening levels. They are caught and killed even by children without any significant reasons. Hence we have initiated owl research and conservation in Nepal since 2008. The aforementioned project is an effort to make students and local people in the eastern hills more aware of owls and their importance to humans. The project also supports a book on owls that is being published.

This project aims to assess the human-black bear conflict in Parche VDC. Structured survey and key informant interview will be conducted to collect information on human-Himalayan black bear conflict. Geo-location of the conflict like crop raiding and human casualty will be collected. These points will digitized with the help of GIS tools.

Also, we are conducting conservation camps in schools and villagers to sensitize them about the ecological importanace of black bear. Conservation materials like posters, brochures will be distributed during the conservation camps. Hoarding with the message on safety tips on sudden encounter with black bear will be installed in entry point of nearby forest from the settlement.